Breeding Berger Picard

Complete Guide for Responsible Breeders

Breeding Berger Picard dogs requires a deep commitment to preserving this rare French herding breed's unique rustic character, working ability, and genetic diversity. As one of the rarest AKC-recognized breeds with a significant genetic bottleneck following two World Wars, every breeding decision carries exceptional weight. This comprehensive guide covers health testing, reproductive considerations, coat genetics, whelping protocols, and the economics of breeding one of France's oldest shepherd breeds.

Breed Overview

The Berger Picard is thought to be the oldest of the French sheepdogs, with origins dating back to the second Celtic invasion of Gaul around 400 BC. These rough-coated shepherds worked the fields and pastures of the Picardy region in northern France for centuries, depicted in tapestries, engravings, and woodcuts throughout medieval and Renaissance Europe. The breed was officially recognized by the French Shepherd Club in 1925, but nearly became extinct after World War I and World War II when trench warfare concentrated in the Picardy region decimated both the dog population and the farms they worked.

The Berger Picard was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2015 as part of the Herding Group. The breed remains exceptionally rare, ranking 151st in AKC popularity with stable but limited registration numbers. The parent club, the Berger Picard Club of America (https://bpclubofamerica.org/), maintains a small but dedicated community of breeders committed to preserving the breed's working heritage, sound temperament, and distinctive appearance.

Unlike more numerous herding breeds such as the German Shepherd Dog or Border Collie, the Berger Picard's small population creates unique challenges for breeders. Limited genetic diversity, geographic dispersion of breeding stock, and the critical importance of preserving breed type while maintaining health make breeding Berger Picards a specialized endeavor requiring careful planning, extensive networking, and deep breed knowledge.

Breed Standard Summary for Breeders

The Berger Picard is a rustic, working shepherd's dog without exaggeration or refinement. Medium-sized, well-muscled but not heavy, with a distinctive rough, tousled coat. The breed's athletic build is suited for all-day work, with an alert, observant expression enhanced by the breed's characteristic erect ears and lively demeanor.

Size specifications:

• Males: 23.5-25.5 inches at the withers, 50-70 pounds
• Females: 21.5-23.5 inches at the withers, 50-70 pounds

Critical disqualifications affecting breeding stock:

• Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid
• Tail absent or bobbed
• Body coat shorter than 1.5 inches, soft or woolly coat, curly coat, flat coat
• More than four missing teeth, overshot or undershot
• Nose any color other than black
• Wall eyes or non-matching eyes
• Ears not carried erect or not standing
• Solid black or white coat, pied, spotted, or harlequin
• Entirely white foot or white bib on chest
• Viciousness or extreme shyness

Serious faults to consider in breeding decisions:

• Height more than 1 inch above or below standard range
• Tail carriage over the back or curled
• Missing teeth (1-4 teeth)
• Coat excessively long or excessively short (but within DQ limits)
• Excessive white markings
• Timid or nervous temperament
• Lacking proper herding dog structure and balance

Key breeding priorities:

1. Correct erect ear carriage and ear set – This is the most essential breed characteristic. Ears that tip, fold, or are not fully erect are a serious fault.
2. Proper coat texture – The coat must be harsh, crisp, and weather-resistant, measuring 2-2.5 inches in length. Soft, woolly, or silky coats are a major fault.
3. Sound herding structure – Proper angulation, balanced proportions, and effortless movement for all-day work.
4. Stable, confident temperament – The breed should be observant and alert but not hyperactive; confident with strangers but not overly gregarious.
5. Moderate size without exaggeration – Avoid breeding oversized or undersized dogs.
6. Natural, rustic appearance – The Berger Picard should never appear refined or "prettified."

Reproductive Profile

The Berger Picard typically produces moderate-sized litters averaging 6 puppies, with a typical range of 4-8 puppies per litter. This is consistent with other medium-sized herding breeds and is appropriate for the breed's rare status, as litters that are too large can be difficult to place responsibly.

The breed has a C-section rate of approximately 12%, which is moderate and comparable to other medium herding breeds like the Beauceron. Most Berger Picards whelp naturally without complications, though careful monitoring is recommended given the value and rarity of each puppy.

Fertility considerations unique to Berger Picards:

• Limited genetic diversity requires careful mate selection to avoid high coefficients of inbreeding
• Small breed population limits stud dog availability, often necessitating long-distance breeding
• Geographic dispersion of breeders means artificial insemination (both fresh and frozen semen) is commonly used
• Rare breed economics means breeders must plan carefully for puppy placement before breeding

Artificial insemination is both suitable and commonly used in Berger Picards due to the geographic dispersion of breeding stock across North America and Europe. Both fresh chilled semen and frozen semen produce acceptable conception rates when proper timing protocols (progesterone testing and ovulation monitoring) are followed.

Breeding Age and Timeline

First heat: Female Berger Picards typically experience their first heat cycle between 8-12 months of age. This timing is consistent with other medium herding breeds.

Recommended first breeding age:

• Females: 24 months (after all health clearances are complete)
• Males: 24 months (after all health clearances are complete)

The 24-month minimum is critical for Berger Picards because it aligns with the OFA minimum age for hip and elbow radiographs. Given the breed's small population and genetic bottleneck, breeding before health testing is complete is particularly irresponsible.

OFA testing minimum age: 24 months for hips and elbows.

Breeding retirement: Females should be retired from breeding at 6-8 years of age, with a maximum of 5 litters per female. This conservative approach protects the health of breeding females and ensures each litter receives appropriate care and attention.

Complete breeding timeline:

1. Birth to 18 months: Raise puppy, evaluate structure and temperament, begin training and socialization
2. 18-24 months: Complete show championship or working titles (if desired), confirm breeding quality
3. 24 months: Complete all required health testing (hips, elbows, eyes, cardiac)
4. 24+ months: Begin searching for appropriate stud dog, evaluate pedigrees and COI
5. Pre-breeding: Progesterone testing to determine optimal breeding timing, arrange fresh or frozen AI if needed
6. Gestation: 63 days average, with prenatal veterinary care and nutritional support
7. Whelping and puppy raising: 8-10 weeks of intensive care before puppy placement
8. Post-whelping: Allow dam to fully recover (minimum 12-18 months between litters)

Required Health Testing

The Berger Picard Club of America participates in the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) program. To qualify for a CHIC number, Berger Picards must have the following health evaluations:

CHIC Required Tests:

• Hip Dysplasia (OFA or PennHIP) – Screens for hip joint malformation and degenerative joint disease. Cost: ~$350. One-time test at 24+ months.
• Eye Examination (OFA) – Screens for progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, retinal dysplasia, and other hereditary eye diseases. Cost: ~$75. Annual examination required throughout breeding life.
• CHIC DNA Repository – DNA sample for breed research and genetic diversity studies. Cost: Free. One-time submission.
• Elective: Cardiac Evaluation (board-certified cardiologist) – Screens for congenital and acquired heart disease. Cost: ~$150. One-time evaluation recommended.

Additional Recommended Tests (beyond CHIC minimum):

• Elbow Dysplasia (OFA) – Screens for elbow joint malformation including fragmented coronoid process, ununited anconeal process, and osteochondritis dissecans. Cost: ~$150.
• Thyroid Evaluation (OFA) – Screens for autoimmune thyroiditis and hypothyroidism. Cost: ~$85.
• Genetic Diversity Testing (UC Davis VGL) – Evaluates individual genetic diversity and internal relatedness, particularly important for rare breeds. Cost: ~$85.

Total estimated health testing cost per breeding dog: ~$575 for CHIC requirements plus cardiac evaluation. Add $320 if including elbows, thyroid, and genetic diversity testing (total ~$895).

All test results should be publicly available through the OFA database (www.ofa.org) to maintain transparency and allow other breeders to make informed decisions. Given the Berger Picard's small population, sharing health information is essential for the breed's long-term survival.

Hereditary Health Conditions

The Berger Picard is generally a healthy breed, but responsible breeders must screen for and understand the following hereditary conditions:

Hip Dysplasia

• Prevalence: Moderate (approximately 15% of tested dogs show some degree of hip dysplasia)
• Inheritance: Polygenic (multiple genes with environmental factors)
• DNA test available: No (radiographic evaluation only)
• Clinical signs: Abnormal gait, difficulty rising, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, decreased activity, pain or stiffness in hind legs. May progress to osteoarthritis.
• Age of onset: 4 months to 2 years (clinical signs); radiographic changes may appear earlier
• Breeding implications: Only breed dogs with OFA Good, Fair, or Excellent hip ratings. Avoid breeding dogs with hip dysplasia unless paired with a dog with excellent hips and compelling reasons exist (rare genetics, exceptional temperament, etc.).

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

• Prevalence: Low to moderate (approximately 8% estimated prevalence)
• Inheritance: Autosomal recessive (specific mutation not yet identified in Berger Picards)
• DNA test available: No (annual eye exams required)
• Clinical signs: Night blindness progressing to complete blindness. Dilated pupils, increased reflectivity of the tapetum. Early-onset (retinal dysplasia) appears at 8-12 weeks; late-onset appears in adulthood.
• Age of onset: 8-12 weeks (early-onset retinal dysplasia) or 3-7 years (late-onset PRA)
• Breeding implications: Annual eye examinations are critical. Never breed a dog diagnosed with PRA. If PRA appears in a line, both parents should be considered carriers (if autosomal recessive inheritance is confirmed).

Elbow Dysplasia

• Prevalence: Low (approximately 5% of tested dogs)
• Inheritance: Polygenic with environmental factors
• DNA test available: No (radiographic evaluation only)
• Clinical signs: Forelimb lameness, stiffness after rest, decreased range of motion in elbow, pain on elbow manipulation, swelling of the elbow joint.
• Age of onset: 4-10 months
• Breeding implications: Screen breeding stock with OFA elbow radiographs. Only breed dogs with normal elbows.

Retinal Dysplasia

• Prevalence: Low (approximately 3% estimated prevalence)
• Inheritance: Variable (can be autosomal recessive, dominant, or associated with other genetic syndromes)
• DNA test available: No
• Clinical signs: Folds or rosettes in the retina (mild), geographic retinal detachment (moderate), or complete retinal detachment with blindness (severe). Detected during eye examination.
• Age of onset: Present at birth; detected at first eye exam (8-12 weeks)
• Breeding implications: Do not breed dogs with moderate to severe retinal dysplasia. Mild retinal folds may be acceptable if other health and conformation qualities are exceptional.

Given the Berger Picard's small population, maintaining genetic diversity while selecting against health problems requires careful pedigree analysis and collaboration among breeders. Removing too many dogs from the breeding pool can be as harmful as breeding dogs with health issues.

Color and Coat Genetics

The Berger Picard's coat color genetics are moderately complex, with a range of accepted fawn and gray shades that reflect the breed's rustic origins.

AKC accepted colors:

• Fawn (fauve)
• Dark fawn (fauve charbonné – fawn with dark overlay)
• Fawn brindle (fauve bringé)
• Gray brindle (brindle)
• Blue-gray
• Red-gray
• Light gray
• Dark gray

Disqualifying colors:

• Solid black
• Solid white
• Pied (large patches of white and color)
• Spotted
• Harlequin
• Entirely white foot
• White bib on chest

Relevant genetic loci:

• A locus (Agouti) – Controls distribution of black pigment. The sable/fawn alleles (Ay) produce the fawn coloration characteristic of the breed.
• K locus (Dominant black) – The KBR allele controls brindle pattern. Dogs with brindle patterns carry at least one KBR allele.
• E locus (Extension) – Controls black mask and pigment distribution. Many Berger Picards have dark masks (Em allele).
• D locus (Dilution) – Affects intensity of pigmentation. The dilute alleles (dd) produce blue-gray and lighter gray colors, which are accepted in the breed and not associated with health issues in Berger Picards.

Health-linked colors:

None. Unlike some breeds, Berger Picards do not have color-linked health conditions. The dilute colors (blue-gray, light gray) are fully accepted and not associated with dilute alopecia or other skin conditions in this breed.

Breeding color predictions:

The most common colors in the breed are fawn and fawn brindle. Because the specific genotypes of individual dogs are not always DNA-tested, predicting puppy colors can be complex:

• Fawn x Fawn – Typically produces all fawn puppies (may have some with darker overlay or masks)
• Fawn brindle x Fawn – Produces approximately 50% fawn and 50% fawn brindle if the brindle parent is KBR/ky
• Brindle x Brindle – Can produce brindle and fawn puppies depending on genotypes
• Gray x Fawn – Produces fawn and gray puppies; gray is produced by dilute alleles (dd)
• Gray x Gray – Produces all gray puppies

White markings are acceptable on the chest, tips of toes, and muzzle, but excessive white (especially entirely white feet or a white bib) is disqualifying. Breeders should select against excessive white markings to maintain breed type.

Coat texture is more critical than color. The Berger Picard's coat must be harsh, crisp, and weather-resistant. Soft, woolly, or silky coats are disqualifying regardless of color. Coat texture appears to be heritable, so breeders should prioritize correct coat over specific color preferences.

Selecting Breeding Stock

Selecting breeding stock in a rare breed requires balancing conformation, health, temperament, genetic diversity, and breed type. Every breeding decision impacts the breed's future.

Conformation priorities:

1. Correct erect ear carriage – The most essential breed characteristic. Ears that tip, fold, or are not fully erect should not be bred.
2. Proper coat texture and length – Harsh, crisp, weather-resistant coat measuring 2-2.5 inches. Soft or woolly coats are disqualifying.
3. Sound movement and balanced structure – The Berger Picard is a working herding dog that must be able to work all day. Proper angulation, balanced proportions, and effortless movement are essential.
4. Moderate size without exaggeration – Males 23.5-25.5 inches, females 21.5-23.5 inches. Avoid breeding oversized or undersized dogs.
5. Strong, confident temperament – The breed should be observant, alert, confident with strangers, and naturally protective without aggression. Shyness or nervousness is a serious fault.
6. Natural, rustic appearance – Avoid over-refinement. The Berger Picard should look like a working farm dog, not a show dog.

Common faults to select against:

• Soft, woolly, or silky coat texture
• Ears that tip, fold, or are not fully erect
• Excessive white markings (especially entirely white feet or white bib)
• Oversized or undersized beyond standard
• Timid or nervous temperament
• Missing teeth or incorrect bite
• Tail carriage over back or curled
• Overly refined or "prettified" appearance

Temperament evaluation:

Temperament is as critical as structure in the Berger Picard. Evaluate breeding stock for:

• Confidence and stability – Should be calm and confident in new situations
• Working drive – Natural herding instinct and desire to work (evaluate with livestock if possible)
• Sociability – Friendly but not overly gregarious; naturally protective but not aggressive
• Trainability – Responsive to training, willing to work with handler

Avoid breeding dogs showing shyness, fear, inappropriate aggression, or hyperactivity. The Berger Picard Club of America recommends temperament testing and encourages breeders to title dogs in herding, obedience, or other performance events to demonstrate working ability.

Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) targets:

The Berger Picard has a relatively high average COI of approximately 0.5% (0.005) over five generations due to the breed's genetic bottleneck. However, breeders should aim for a target COI under 5% to maintain genetic diversity.

Use genetic diversity testing from UC Davis VGL to evaluate individual dogs' internal relatedness. Breeders should prioritize maintaining genetic diversity while selecting for health, temperament, and breed type.

Stud selection criteria:

When selecting a stud dog, evaluate:

• Health clearances – Hips, elbows, eyes, cardiac all cleared
• Conformation quality – Complementary to the female's strengths and weaknesses
• Temperament – Strong, confident, stable working temperament
• Pedigree – Low COI when paired with the female, ideally bringing in different lines
• Genetic diversity – High internal heterozygosity preferred
• Breeding record – Proven producer of quality puppies if previously bred

Stud fee range: $800-$1,500, with most fees around $1,000. Given the breed's rarity, stud fees are typically on the higher end of this range for proven, health-tested males with strong pedigrees.

Whelping and Neonatal Care

The Berger Picard is typically whelped naturally, with a C-section rate of approximately 12%. This moderate C-section rate is comparable to other medium herding breeds and significantly lower than brachycephalic or toy breeds.

Breed-specific whelping considerations:

• Rare breed with limited experienced breeders – First-time Picard breeders should seek mentorship from experienced breeders or the breed club. The BPCA maintains a mentor program.
• Moderate C-section rate – While most litters whelp naturally, be prepared for the possibility of a C-section. Have a 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic identified before whelping.
• Value of each puppy – Given the breed's rarity and small population, each puppy is precious. Careful monitoring during whelping and the neonatal period is critical.
• Genetic bottleneck – Losing puppies has a disproportionate impact on breed diversity. Breeders should be prepared for supplemental feeding, veterinary intervention, and intensive neonatal care if needed.

Expected birth weights:

• Males: 14-16 ounces
• Females: 12-14 ounces

Daily weight gain target: Puppies should gain 5-10% of birth weight per day, approximately 0.5-1 ounce per day in the first week. Weigh puppies daily for the first two weeks to identify fading puppies early.

Fading puppy risk factors:

• Low birth weight (under 10 ounces)
• Failure to gain weight in first 24-48 hours
• Inability to nurse effectively
• Low body temperature (under 95°F)
• Lethargy or weak vocalizations

Fading puppies require immediate veterinary attention, supplemental feeding, and warming. Because the Berger Picard population is small, every effort should be made to save struggling puppies when possible.

Supplemental feeding:

If puppies are not gaining weight appropriately or if the litter is large and the dam has insufficient milk, supplemental feeding with commercial puppy milk replacer may be necessary. Feed every 2-3 hours for the first week, gradually extending the interval as puppies grow.

Dewclaw, tail, and ear practices:

The Berger Picard is shown and bred completely natural:

• Dewclaws: Not removed. Front dewclaws are naturally present; rear dewclaws may or may not be present.
• Tail: Never docked. A naturally long tail is required by the breed standard. Absent or bobbed tail is a disqualification.
• Ears: Never cropped. Natural erect ears are an essential breed characteristic.

Puppy Development Milestones

Berger Picard puppies develop at a moderate pace typical of medium herding breeds, reaching adult size between 18-24 months.

Weekly growth milestones (birth through 8 weeks):

• Week 0 (birth): Males 14-16 oz, females 12-14 oz. Eyes and ears closed, unable to regulate body temperature.
• Week 1: Males ~1.5 lbs, females ~1.3 lbs. Puppies should double birth weight by day 7-10.
• Week 2: Males ~2.2 lbs, females ~2.0 lbs. Eyes begin to open (10-14 days). Ear canals begin to open.
• Week 3: Males ~3.0 lbs, females ~2.7 lbs. Puppies begin walking (unsteadily). Teeth start to erupt. Critical socialization window begins.
• Week 4: Males ~4.0 lbs, females ~3.6 lbs. Weaning process can begin. Puppies become more coordinated.
• Week 5: Males ~5.2 lbs, females ~4.7 lbs. Socialization with humans and littermates critical.
• Week 6: Males ~6.5 lbs, females ~6.0 lbs. Weaning typically complete. Puppies eating solid food.
• Week 7: Males ~8.0 lbs, females ~7.3 lbs. Fear imprint period (7-9 weeks) – avoid traumatic experiences.
• Week 8: Males ~9.5 lbs, females ~8.8 lbs. Earliest appropriate go-home age.
• Week 12: Males ~15.5 lbs, females ~14.5 lbs.

Key developmental milestones:

Neonatal period (0-2 weeks): Puppies are entirely dependent on the dam. Eyes and ears closed, unable to regulate body temperature. Focus on weight gain and warmth.

Transitional period (2-3 weeks): Eyes and ears open. Puppies begin to explore their environment and interact with littermates.

Socialization window (3-14 weeks): Critical period for socialization with humans, other dogs, and novel stimuli. Expose puppies to a variety of sights, sounds, surfaces, and experiences. Handle puppies daily. This period is the most important for developing stable, confident temperaments.

Fear periods: Berger Picard puppies experience fear imprint periods around 7-9 weeks and again around 4-6 months. Avoid traumatic experiences during these periods. Provide positive, confidence-building experiences instead.

Weaning age: 6-7 weeks. Begin offering solid food (soaked puppy kibble or raw if feeding raw) around 3-4 weeks. Gradually transition from nursing to solid food over 2-3 weeks.

Go-home age: 8-10 weeks. Most breeders send puppies home at 8 weeks, though some prefer to keep promising show prospects until 10-12 weeks for additional evaluation and socialization.

Structural evaluation timing:

• 8-10 weeks: Preliminary evaluation for ear set, coat texture, overall structure, and temperament
• 6 months: Intermediate structural evaluation as adult proportions begin to emerge
• 18-24 months: Final evaluation when dog reaches full adult size and structure

Adult size achievement: Berger Picards reach full adult size at 18-24 months. Males may continue to fill out and develop muscle until 2-3 years of age.

Breeding Economics

Breeding Berger Picards is rarely profitable when all costs are properly accounted for. The breed's rarity, health testing requirements, and geographic dispersion of breeders create significant expenses.

Complete cost breakdown for a typical litter (6 puppies, natural whelping):

Pre-breeding costs:

• Health testing (both parents): $1,150
• Stud fee: $1,000
• Progesterone testing (timing breeding): $500

Pregnancy and whelping costs:

• Prenatal veterinary care (ultrasound, X-rays, wellness exams): $350
• Whelping supplies and setup: $200
• C-section (if needed): $2,000 (average; natural whelping ~$200)

Puppy raising costs (birth through 8-10 weeks):

• Veterinary care (exams, first vaccines, deworming for 6 puppies): $900
• Food and supplements (dam during pregnancy/nursing plus puppies): $400
• AKC registration (litter + individual puppies): $180
• Marketing and puppy placement (website, photos, contracts, health guarantees): Variable

Total investment (natural whelping): ~$4,680

Total investment (C-section): ~$6,480

Revenue:

• Average puppy price (pet quality): $2,500
• Average puppy price (show/breeding quality): $3,000
• Average litter revenue (6 puppies, mixed pet/show): ~$15,000

Net analysis:

• Natural whelping: ~$10,320 gross margin
• C-section: ~$8,520 gross margin

These figures do not include:

• Time investment (whelping, puppy socialization, communications with buyers – hundreds of hours)
• Initial purchase price of breeding female ($2,500-$3,500)
• Show and titling expenses for breeding dogs
• Facility costs (whelping area, puppy raising area, fencing, etc.)
• Travel expenses to stud dog or shows
• Emergency veterinary care for complications
• Marketing and advertising expenses

When time investment is properly valued, most Berger Picard breeders break even or operate at a loss. Breeding Berger Picards is a labor of love and a commitment to preserving a rare breed, not a money-making enterprise.

Puppy pricing considerations:

Given the breed's rarity, limited availability, and high health testing and breeding costs, Berger Picard puppies command premium prices. Pet-quality puppies typically sell for $2,500, while show/breeding-quality puppies may sell for $3,000 or more.

Responsible breeders may charge higher prices for:

• Puppies from health-tested, titled parents
• Puppies from rare or imported bloodlines
• Puppies with full AKC registration and breeding rights (to approved homes only)

Lower prices may be appropriate for:

• Pet homes with spay/neuter contracts and limited registration
• Puppies with minor cosmetic faults (excessive white markings, slightly incorrect ear set, etc.)
• Companion homes willing to participate in performance events

Breeder Resources

Parent Club: The Berger Picard Club of America (BPCA) is the official AKC parent club for the breed. Website: https://bpclubofamerica.org/

The BPCA provides:

• Breeder referrals and breeder directory
• Code of Ethics for breeders
• Health testing recommendations and CHIC requirements
• Breed education and mentorship programs
• National specialty shows and performance events
• Judges education

Regional Clubs:

Currently, the BPCA is the primary club for Berger Picards in the United States. Given the breed's small population, regional clubs have not yet formed.

AKC Breeder Programs:

• AKC Breeder of Merit – Recognizes breeders who demonstrate a commitment to health testing, education, and breed preservation. Requirements include CHIC testing on all breeding stock, participation in AKC events, and adherence to the AKC Code of Conduct.
• AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. – Recognizes breeders who demonstrate Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility, and Tradition.

Recommended Books:

• The Berger Picard: Rare Dog Breed (Kennel Club Books) – Comprehensive breed-specific guide
• Herding Dogs: Selection and Training the Working Farm Dog by Vergil S. Holland – Practical guide to herding dog training and selection

Online Communities:

• Berger Picard Club of America Facebook Group – Private group for BPCA members
• Berger Picard Owners and Enthusiasts (Facebook) – Public group for owners and enthusiasts
• Berger Picard Club of America Member Forums – Online discussion forums for members

International Resources:

Because the Berger Picard is an international breed with small populations worldwide, American breeders often collaborate with French, Canadian, and European breeders:

• Club des Amis du Berger Picard (France) – Original French parent club
• Berger Picard Club of Canada

Frequently Asked Questions

How many puppies do Berger Picards typically have?

Berger Picards typically have litters of 6 puppies, with a normal range of 4-8 puppies. This moderate litter size is appropriate for the breed's rare status and makes puppy raising manageable for breeders. Litters at the extremes (very small or very large) are less common.

Do Berger Picards need C-sections?

Most Berger Picards whelp naturally without complications. The breed has a C-section rate of approximately 12%, which is moderate and comparable to other medium herding breeds. This is significantly lower than brachycephalic breeds (which often exceed 80%) but higher than some large breeds. Breeders should be prepared for the possibility of a C-section and have emergency veterinary care available.

What health tests are required for breeding Berger Picards?

The CHIC requirements for Berger Picards include hip dysplasia evaluation (OFA or PennHIP), annual eye examination (OFA), and CHIC DNA repository submission. An elective cardiac evaluation by a board-certified cardiologist is also recommended. Additional recommended tests include elbow dysplasia, thyroid evaluation, and genetic diversity testing. Total cost for required tests is approximately $575 per dog, or ~$895 if including all recommended tests.

How much does it cost to breed Berger Picards?

The total investment for a Berger Picard litter averages $4,680 for natural whelping or $6,480 if a C-section is required. This includes health testing for both parents, stud fee, progesterone testing, prenatal care, whelping, puppy veterinary care, food, and registration. These figures do not include time investment, facility costs, or the initial purchase price of the breeding female.

At what age can you breed a Berger Picard?

Both male and female Berger Picards should be at least 24 months old before breeding to allow completion of all required health testing (OFA hips and elbows require a minimum age of 24 months). Females typically experience their first heat at 8-12 months but should not be bred this young. Waiting until 24 months ensures physical maturity, health clearances, and proper evaluation of breeding quality.

How much do Berger Picard puppies cost?

Berger Picard puppies from health-tested parents typically cost $2,500 for pet-quality puppies and $3,000 or more for show/breeding-quality puppies. Prices reflect the breed's rarity, limited availability, extensive health testing requirements, and high breeding costs. Puppies priced significantly below $2,000 should be carefully evaluated for health testing and responsible breeding practices.

What are the most common health problems in Berger Picards?

The most common health concerns in Berger Picards are hip dysplasia (moderate prevalence, approximately 15%), progressive retinal atrophy (low to moderate prevalence, approximately 8%), elbow dysplasia (low prevalence, approximately 5%), and retinal dysplasia (low prevalence, approximately 3%). The breed is generally healthy, but responsible breeders screen for these conditions through OFA hip and elbow radiographs and annual eye examinations.

Is breeding Berger Picards profitable?

Breeding Berger Picards is rarely profitable when all costs and time investment are properly accounted for. While gross revenue from a typical 6-puppy litter is approximately $15,000, breeding costs typically range from $4,680 (natural whelping) to $6,480 (C-section). When facility costs, time investment (hundreds of hours), and the initial purchase price of breeding stock are included, most breeders break even or operate at a loss. Breeding Berger Picards should be motivated by a commitment to preserving the breed, not profit.

Why are Berger Picards so rare?

Berger Picards nearly became extinct after World War I and World War II when trench warfare concentrated in the Picardy region of France decimated both the dog population and the farms they worked. The breed has slowly recovered but remains rare, with limited breeding programs worldwide. The breed was only recognized by the AKC in 2015 and ranks 151st in popularity. The small population creates challenges for breeders including limited genetic diversity, geographic dispersion of breeding stock, and difficulty finding appropriate mates.

Can Berger Picards be bred using artificial insemination?

Yes, artificial insemination (both fresh chilled and frozen semen) is commonly used in Berger Picards due to the geographic dispersion of breeding stock across North America and Europe. With proper timing protocols (progesterone testing and ovulation monitoring), both fresh and frozen AI produce acceptable conception rates. Many breedings between American and European lines use frozen semen imported from France or other countries.

What makes a good Berger Picard breeding dog?

A good Berger Picard breeding dog must have complete health clearances (hips, eyes, cardiac at minimum), correct breed type (erect ears, harsh coat texture, rustic appearance), sound herding structure and movement, and a stable, confident temperament. Additionally, the dog should have a low coefficient of inbreeding when paired with prospective mates to maintain genetic diversity. Titling in conformation, herding, or other performance events demonstrates working ability and breed quality. Given the breed's rarity, every breeding decision should prioritize health, temperament, and genetic diversity while preserving essential breed characteristics.